American Revue: A Celebration of the American Musical is a large‑scale theatrical production that showcases the evolution, innovation and cultural influence of American musical theatre. Through a blend of performance, historical narration and multimedia design, the production celebrates the country’s momentous milestone by highlighting musicals that shaped American artistic identity.

The works highlighted in American Revue were chosen for their cultural, social and historical significance in musical theater history.

Directed by Morning Bishop Theater’s executive director, McKenya Dilworth Smith, the production offers an inspiring journey through the unique stories America has told on its stages through highlights from acclaimed American musicals from the likes of Rodgers and Hammerstein (Oklahoma), Leonard Bernstein (West Side Story), Kander and Ebb (Cabaret).

Director Dilworth Smith and IU Northwest Director of Arts Programming Erin McHugh carefully assembled a production team to curate the line-up, which ranges from well-known crowd pleasers to show-stopping numbers from musical theater giants. In this way, Smith feels that “American Revue has been designed to appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.”

McHugh notes that the show is, “a true celebration of theater as a community builder,” especially given that the production has been cast with a mixture of Northwest Indiana community members and IU Northwest students and alumni.

IU Northwest is sponsoring two free performances in the Arts & Sciences Mainstage Theater at 7 p.m., Friday, August 28 and 3 p.m., Saturday, August 29.

Patrons are encouraged to reserve their complimentary tickets through IU Northwest’s box office website or by calling 219-980-6668.

Reserve your tickets here

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Indiana University Northwest School of the Arts is collaborating with Gary-based Morning Bishop Theater Playhouse to produce an exciting musical theater review honoring the 250th anniversary of the formation of the United States.

American Revue: A Celebration of the American Musical is a large‑scale theatrical production that showcases the evolution, innovation and cultural influence of American musical theatre. Through a blend of performance, historical narration and multimedia design, the production celebrates the country’s momentous milestone by highlighting musicals that shaped American artistic identity.

The works highlighted in American Revue were chosen for their cultural, social and historical significance in musical theater history.

Directed by Morning Bishop Theater’s executive director, McKenya Dilworth Smith, the production offers an inspiring journey through the unique stories America has told on its stages through highlights from acclaimed American musicals from the likes of Rodgers and Hammerstein (Oklahoma), Leonard Bernstein (West Side Story), Kander and Ebb (Cabaret).

Director Dilworth Smith and IU Northwest Director of Arts Programming Erin McHugh carefully assembled a production team to curate the line-up, which ranges from well-known crowd pleasers to show-stopping numbers from musical theater giants. In this way, Smith feels that “American Revue has been designed to appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.”

McHugh notes that the show is, “a true celebration of theater as a community builder,” especially given that the production has been cast with a mixture of Northwest Indiana community members and IU Northwest students and alumni.

IU Northwest is sponsoring two free performances in the Arts & Sciences Mainstage Theater at 7 p.m., Friday, August 28 and 3 p.m., Saturday, August 29.

Patrons are encouraged to reserve their complimentary tickets through IU Northwest’s box office website or by calling 219-980-6668.

Reserve your tickets here

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The group members were asked by Randy, to come together just once and perform a few songs he had written. The response was greater than anticipated, and Randy was then led to create Judah Band. Because of his heart for people, Randy also founded the 19:17 Initiative, a faith-based service organization, devoted to assisting in meeting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of low-income families and homeless Individuals. Judah Band makes it their mission to lead this charge and serve while traveling the country.

Randy is also founder and CEO of The Hill Productions, which is responsible for the production of Judah Band’s media and music videos. The 3-time Stellar Award nominated group is signed with Fairtrade Services and released their latest album, AGAIN in May of 2026. The album soared to #1 on the Billboard Gospel sales charts. Their first album, Gone Fishin’, was released in November of 2018, which was birthed through Randy’s experience with cancer and features the hit single ‘For My Good’. In 2019, the video for their single, ‘I Believe’ was debuted on BET Gospel. The multiple Gospel Billboard charting group, has received several prestige’s awards, including their own Grammy consideration. Judah Band continues their mission with one focus Gods Glory 

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Be among the first to experience our brand-new historical narrative film, an inspiring look at the remarkable story of The Lerner Theatre—from its grand opening in 1924 through decades of entertainment, preservation, restoration, and the vibrant community landmark it is today. The 30-minute film will be shown every half hour between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., making it easy to stop in and enjoy this special premiere.

Guests are encouraged to embrace the evening’s nostalgic 1950s theme by dressing in their favorite vintage attire as we honor the beloved ELCO era—one of the most cherished chapters in The Lerner’s history and a time fondly remembered by generations of our community. While you’re here, be sure to explore our collection of artwork from local artists around the area, generously donated by the Midwest Museum of American Art, and enjoy an evening where history, art, and community come together!

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Secondhand News recreates the experience of seeing Fleetwood Mac in their heyday. Made up of veteran Chicago musicians, the band features spot-on vocal harmonies, careful attention to detail, and electric live shows. Through the talents of these seasoned performers, the spirit and musicianship of Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Christine McVie, Stevie Nicks, and Lindsey Buckingham come to life on stage. Audiences are energized by dynamic deliveries of favorites from the band’s extensive catalog of hits as well as deep cuts beloved by superfans. The fun these musicians have recreating these classic songs together is infectious and will bring you to your feet in shared appreciation for one of the greatest bands of all time.

Secondhand News will perform a FREE show as part of The Pavilion at Wolf Lake’s Summer Concert Series.

Don’t miss a great evening with Secondhand News on Saturday, July 25th at The Pav!

Visit wolflakepavilion.com for updates!

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The post City of Hammond Festival of the Lakes Banda El Recodo 2026 appeared first on GreatNews.Life.

The run up to the festival began on July 11 with the annual Roadie Run, but the festival properly kicked off on July 15 with Senior Day in the morning and the carnival opening in the evening. Wednesday’s entertainment featured a variety of freestyle heavy hitters like TKA, George Lamond, and Judy Torres, among others.

One of the biggest draws for Festival of the Lakes is the caliber of artists the city secures for the event. The artists come from a diverse range of genres to give every guest something to enjoy, and the concerts are frequently free to attend. This year’s event featured the aforementioned freestyle experience, Jelly Roll (ticketed), the Offspring, Moneybagg Yo & Kevin Gates, and Banda El Recodo.

“It’s great to be up so close and personal with the artists performing. You’re right there, as opposed to being at some big concert venue, sitting far back. It’s just amazing,” said attendee Jaclyn Toczydlowski. 

The festival has hosted several award-winning artists at Wolf Lake, including Akon, Lil Wayne, and Brantley Gilbert. Being able to attract such quality talent is a testament to the growth Hammond is undergoing and the momentum it’s building.

In addition to the music, Festival of the Lakes brings carnival rides and food vendors to Wolf Lake for families to enjoy. Special events like the Golf Scramble on July 17 and the Fishing Derby on July 18 provide opportunities outside of the actual festival for connecting with the community.

“There’s something going on, besides music, at all times. We do the golf outing every year, and the fishing derby on Saturday morning. We had the 5K last week and the Polkafest on Sunday. On top of those things, the carnival is constantly going on for families to enjoy,” said Mayor Thomas McDermott. 

Festival of the Lakes will run from July 15 through July 19. For a full list of entertainment and events as well as festival rules and parking information, visit festivalofthelakes.com.

Visit gohammond.com or follow the city on Facebook to keep up to date on everything happening in the City of Hammond.

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Doors: 7pm • Show 7:30pm • Cover $10

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